This course is aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the major theories of human growth and development across the life span. Topics include perceptual, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Developmental periods include infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood with an emphasis on early development. Students will also be introduced to some conceptual models of developmental psychopathology, major risk and protective factors, and the role of race/ethnicity/culture in developmental pathways. Required readings are selected from 1) a text on theories of development and 2) classic and recent published papers in the field. This seminar heavily relies on student in-class participation such as presentation of reaction papers and final term paper, and active discussion

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Master's Degree Program in Mental Health Counseling